Gemotions

Rain pattered softly against the attic window as Daniel settled into his armchair, a well-loved book resting in his lap. The scent of old paper and dust filled the air, a familiar comfort. He took a deep breath, letting the scent ground him. He felt… well, good. He'd been looking forward to this all day.

He heard the front door open downstairs. Footsteps ascended the creaking stairs. Then, a voice – his partner, Chloe – called out, "Nǐ hǎo, darling! How was your day?" He slowly lowered the book, a slight furrow in his brow.

He thought, "That's… new." He waited for her to repeat herself, thinking he may have misheard her, but she didn't. He closed his book and set it aside, his curiosity piqued.